Trenton, Tenn.–A young Trenton man was sentenced to serve 20 years in state prison on charges of attempted first degree nurder, aggravated burglary, and felony evading arrest after he shot at a police officer. Bladen Hankins, age 18, pleaded guilty September 16 in the Circuit Court of Gibson County at Trenton.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Nina Seiler and investigated by Gibson County Sheriff’s Department Inv. Nick Milan.
On August 10th, 2022, Sgt. Wilson Chute with the Trenton Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Hankins, who was 16 at the time, for driving a stolen ATV on Armory Street. Hankins refused to comply with Sgt. Chute’s commands, and a pursuit ensued. While Hankins evaded arrest, he fired five rounds from a handgun stolen from his grandfather at Sgt. Chute.
Back-up officers were able to stop Hankins, who admitted to intentionally shooting at Sgt. Chute.
“We are blessed and thankful that none of our Trenton Police Officers or innocent bystanders were injured by Hankins’ extremely dangerous actions on that day. Because he committed Attempted First Degree Murder as a juvenile, he was transferred from Juvenile Court to be tried as an adult. Our office is focused on prosecuting violent crime, and we will not hesitate to seek transfer of juveniles that commit violent acts, especially against our law enforcement officers. While incarcerated, this Defendant has the opportunity to comply with intensive mental health treatment, educational programs, and drug counseling that can reduce his chances of reoffending after he serves his 20-year sentence.”
– Frederick H. Agee, District Attorney General